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Shake Out. Don't Freak Out.

The Great SouthEast Shake Out - October 17, 10:17 a.m.

Posted Date: 10/14/2013

At 10:17 a.m. on October 17, 2013, millions of people will “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” in The Great SouthEast ShakeOut, the region's largest earthquake drill ever! All colleges and universities are encouraged to participate in the drill (or plan a more extensive exercise). Major earthquakes may happen anywhere you live, work, or travel. The ShakeOut is our chance to practice how to protect ourselves, and for everyone to become prepared. The goal is to prevent a major earthquake from becoming a catastrophe for you, your organization, and your community.

Why is a “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” drill important? To respond quickly you must practice often. You may only have seconds to protect yourself in an earthquake before strong shaking knocks you down, or something falls on you. Millions of people worldwide have participated in Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills since 2008. The Great SouthEast ShakeOut is held on the third Thursday of October each year.

How to correctly perform Drop, Cover, and Hold On, wherever you are. This includes dropping to the floor (to prevent falling), making yourself as small a target as possible, and protecting your head, neck and chest by taking cover under a sturdy desk or table or near an interior wall, covering your head your hands and arms.